Marmaris Holidays 2024 from £259pp

Why go to Marmaris

Picture long days under blue skies and late nights sipping colourful cocktails, and you can begin to see why Marmaris is such a popular cheap holiday destination. Throw in a smattering of historical sites and stacks of culture, and your days in one of the jewels of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast will be as fun as they are memorable.

Sun-worshipper? You’re in good company. Many holidaymakers come to this lovely stretch of shoreline to enjoy favourable weather, gorgeous beaches and beautiful natural scenery. And Marmaris, which occupies a sweeping bay set against a backdrop of pine-clad hills, checks all those boxes.

It’s also popular with travellers who like to either sail or dive – or both. The marina, which serves as a departure point for watersports, is also a hub of activity, with plenty of shops, entertainment and restaurants to keep you thoroughly distracted and replenished.

And while Marmaris is as modern as resorts come, you can discover a more traditional side to the area the further inland you go. In the old town, for example, the buzz of the coast tends to fade as sand and sea is replaced by cobblestone streets and old-fashioned stone houses. It’s where you’ll also find town’s namesake castle. Culture cravers, meanwhile, can see how long-standing traditions translate to the present day at the Grand Bazaar.

Looking to explore a little further? Marmaris makes a good base. Highlights include trips to Icmeler, either to hike or for its colourful market, and even the Greek island of Rhodes. If you opt for the latter, pack a travel bag and your passport.

When to go to Marmaris

Summers are long and hot in Marmaris with July and August seeing the warmest temperatures (up to 35C) and a whopping 12 hours of sun a day. Of course, warm weather brings lots of visitors, so you’ll find that it’s the most expensive time to book your holiday.

Alternatively, the shoulder seasons are a great time to pick up a cheap holiday to Marmaris without compromising on the weather. Try April or November, when the weather is still good – expect averages of 22C – the sky blue.

From January to March, it’s wet and cool, but for some, perfectly so. If temperatures between 15C and 19C sound good to you, this is when to plan your getaway. Just be prepared for some attractions to have shut up shop or to be operating on reduced hours.

What to do in Marmaris

A week in Marmaris is whatever you want it to be. Step back in time to spice-filled souks, dance all night with friends, or catch up on sleep in the sun. With so much to do – or not – it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular destinations on the Turquoise Coast.

Grand Bazaar

No visit to Marmaris would be complete without a trip to the Grand Bazaar. It’s a maze of modern shops that are mixed in with stalls that hark back to the town’s traditional roots. It’s got a roof too, so even out of season your shopping doesn’t have to stop.

Look out for handmade leather goods, ornate rugs and mosaic-style lanterns, as well as spices, jam and honey. Haggling is encouraged!

Marmaris Castle

Built by the Ionians in 1044 BC and rebuilt, repaired and reconstructed throughout history, Marmaris Castle has overlooked the bay in some form while Turkey changed around it.

The Marmaris Archaeology Museum, situated next door, serves to tell that story via artefacts, an art gallery, an ethnography exhibit and, on certain days, workshops.

Cleopatra Island

According to legend, Cleopatra swam here with her lover, Mark Antony. It’s said the sand, which is made up of tiny seashells and quite different to the other beaches in the area, was shipped over from Egypt as a wedding gift, and that the crystal-clear waters reminded her of home.

The island, which is also known as Sedir Island, also features the ancient ruins of Kedrai, including walls, several towers and a theatre. It’s a great spot to snorkel and dive, especially for beginners as the water is calm and clear.

Atlantis Water Park

So much more than slides and shoots, Atlantis Water Park is a great day out for the whole family. After riding the rapids and wiping out in the wave pool, there’s mini golf, bowling and lots of restaurants to try.

The park sits on its own private beach with free sunbeds so you can top up your tan if the kids are old enough to entertain themselves.

Bar Street

By the marina, Bar Street is the destination for party people. Laser and foam parties, fancy dress and fruity cocktails dominate until 5am, when you can pick up an authentic chilli-laden kebab on the way back to your hotel.

On the other side of town, you’ll find traditional Turkish taverns where belly dancing and the best mezze awaits.